You can now create your own itineraries to guide your C&O Canal exploration, or you can copy one of ours! Learn more about Itineraries.
Before highways and railroads, travel was difficult. One could travel by water, but only to towns and settlements on the coast or a river. Learn more.
Before highways and railroads, travel was difficult. One could travel by water, but only to towns and settlements on the coast or a river. The National Road (or Cumberland Road) was the first major improved highway in the United States built by the Federal Government. About 620 miles long, the National Road connected the Potomac and Ohio Rivers and allowed thousands of settlers to begin their journey West. Construction began in 1811, and the first part of the National Road connected the headwaters of the Potomac River at Cumberland, Maryland, through the Cumberland Gap in the Alleghenies, to Wheeling, West Virginia. Construction ended in Illinois when funding ran dry. In the 1870s, railroads became more popular, and the National Road was utilized less. In the 1920s, the automobile was invented and by 1926, the road was part of U.S. 40 as a coast-to-coast highway.
A newly erected monument — located at the approximate start of the National Road’s original route on Greene Street at Riverside Park — commemorates the 200th anniversary of the National Road. Previously, only a small concrete marker in a traffic island marked this historic spot.
We know that to preserve something, you need to experience it, so we are proud to provide support to the C&O National Historical Park as their official philanthropic partner.
Please visit the National Park Service website for the following information:
For more information and nearby places to stay or grab a bite to eat, please visit our local tourism partners:
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C&O Canal Explorer!
There has been a lapse in appropriations, and a shutdown of the federal government is currently in effect. Much of the C&O Canal National Historical Park remains open to the public, however, the National Park Service is not able to operate as normal. Visitor services, including park visitor centers and other NPS-staffed facilities, will not be available. Inquiries to the National Park Service will not be received or responded to until the shutdown ends.
The C&O Canal Trust’s staff are currently working remotely. Scheduled Trust events and Canal Quarters reservations will continue as scheduled. While a federal government shutdown is in effect, visitors should not expect services typically provided by the National Park Service to be available. All visitors are urged to practice safety in the park and plan ahead. Be a good park steward by recreating responsibly and practicing Leave No Trace principles, respecting cultural and natural resources.
Information regarding the Department of Interior’s Operations in the Absence of Appropriations can be found here: https://www.doi.gov/shutdown.
When federal funding is restored, we look forward to continuing to work with our park partner to ensure the C&O Canal remains beautiful, safe, and welcoming for visitors today and for future generations. Love the Park? Help the Trust! Consider making a donation. Your support directly helps fund beautification, conservation, education, and preservation initiatives in the park.